A signed David Hockney print discovered inside a donated book at a Salvation Army charity shop in Norwich has sold at auction for £41,160. The find, made by volunteer Jemma Banks, was tucked inside a copy of Paper Pools, a 1980 publication showcasing Hockney’s celebrated swimming pool artworks.
Banks, a local artist and long-serving volunteer, noticed the print while flicking through the book. The original signed print had remained hidden for 46 years, preserved in pristine condition. The Salvation Army described it as an "exceptionally rare collector's piece."
Auction and Buyer
After research by the Salvation Army Trading Company and their eBay store, the print was listed on The Salvation Army’s Collectables & Curiosity eBay shop. Bidding "quickly gathered pace," according to the charity, and the artwork sold for £41,160. The anonymous buyer said: "I've admired David Hockney's work for many years, so acquiring such an iconic piece is incredibly special. I'm delighted that, at the same time, the purchase will help support the invaluable work of The Salvation Army."
Volunteer’s Reaction
Jemma Banks expressed amazement at the discovery: "It was a privilege to hold a genuine signed David Hockney print in my hands, and I was amazed that it had remained safely inside the book for 46 years, looking as fresh as the day it came off the lithographic press. As a local artist, I recognised that the book might be something special, but I never imagined just how significant it would turn out to be." Major Tracey Bale, who leads The Salvation Army's Norwich Citadel, praised Banks: "Jemma’s knowledge and curiosity made all the difference. Thanks to her recognising that this was far more than an ordinary donated book, an incredible piece of art has been preserved and transformed into vital funds for our work."
David Hockney’s Legacy
David Hockney, one of the most celebrated British artists of modern times, died peacefully at home on June 11 at age 88. He was known for his versatility, embracing digital art and iPad painting alongside traditional methods. Hockney trained at Bradford School of Art in the 1950s and the Royal College of Art in London, graduating with a gold medal in 1962. The print sale will support The Salvation Army’s community work in Norwich.
